FAQs About Heating & Cooling Systems

How do I know when it is time to replace my heating and cooling system?

There are a few factors that go into making the decision about when to replace your heating or air conditioning system. For instance if you have an older HVAC system that you either want to replace before it needs costly repairs, has broken down or is not performing well, you probably want to look into replacing it with new more energy efficeint hvac system.

How long will my heating and cooling system last?

If your heating and cooling system was installed properly and well maintained, then you could get up to 20 years or more of use. This depends greatly on how much care goes into maintaining your system.

How often should I schedule routine maintenance appointments with a professional?

We recommend two routine HVAC maintenance appointments per year. Once in the spring for your air conditioner, and once in the fall for your furnace.

Why is my system not cooling/heating as well as it should?

If you air conditioning system is not performing well then a good question to ask is this is a new problem for your cooling system. If so, something as simple as having your system professionally cleaned or adjusting the refrigerant might be all you need. However, there could also be a more serious issue causing your system to perform poorly, so it’s important to schedule a service appointment with a licensed technician to have your system properly checked.

What can I do to reduce my home’s carbon footprint?

Nearly half of the energy used in your home goes into the heating and cooling system. Some simple steps to reducing your energy usage would be:

1. Adjusting your thermostat only 2 degrees (lower in winter, higher in summer). This can decrease your energy consumption by up to 4%.

2. Replacing an older HVAC system with a newer, more energy efficient one. Depending on the system you choose, you can substantially decrease your energy usage.

3. And, make sure your home is properly sealed and insulated.

What can I do to make my home less dry and reduce static?

If you have a forced air heating system, adding a humidifier is a good choice to eliminate dryness and static. And, you will feel warmer using less energy.

How often should I have my air ducts cleaned and inspected?

Our recommendation is that consumers should have their ducts cleaned and inspected roughly every three years. The quality of air filter you use and the amount of maintenance you do can have a big impact on how often your ducts need cleaned. By using high quality air filters helps to protect your ducts and equipment, and scheduled maintenance increases efficiency.